Breathalyzer devices are commonly used when law enforcement officers want to determine if someone is driving under the influence (DUI).
While these devices are supposed to be reliable, they are not immune to problems – and certain medical conditions can cause false positives or erroneously high readings. Here are three possibilities:
1. Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD)
Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is a chronic digestive disorder where stomach acid frequently flows back into the sufferer’s esophagus. GERD can cause alcohol from the stomach to be regurgitated into the mouth, leading to higher concentrations of alcohol in the breath. Since breathalyzers measure alcohol present in the breath, not directly in the bloodstream, this regurgitated alcohol can cause an artificially high BAC reading.
2. Uncontrolled diabetes
Diabetes is a disease that can creep up on someone, and many people with Type II diabetes have it for a long time before they discover the problem. Others struggle to manage their disease well, for various reasons. Diabetic ketoacidosis is a common complication among uncontrolled diabetics, producing excess ketones – including acetone, which can lead to false-positive breathalyzer readings.
3. The common cold
Whether it’s winter or summer, the common cold knows no boundaries – but most people have no idea that many over-the-counter cold medications contain up to 25% alcohol. This includes liquid formulations of common cold and allergy medications like Benadryl, Robitussin, Tylenol, Vicks and Sominex. Small amounts of alcohol from these medications can linger in someone’s mouth and throat and lead to a higher breathalyzer reading – especially if the medication was used shortly before the driver was stopped.
If a failed breathalyzer test has left you scratching your head in confusion because you can’t believe that the reading was so high, it may be worth considering whether your health may have played a factor – and whether the issue should be raised in your defense.